Undergraduate Research: How to get started?

Getting Started in Undergraduate Research is a resource from Binghamton University that introduces students to the process of finding and participating in undergraduate research opportunities. The site outlines the benefits of research involvement, strategies for identifying research interests, tips for connecting with faculty mentors, and guidance on getting started regardless of prior research experience. It also links students to additional campus resources and programs that support undergraduate scholarship and research engagement.

Who should use this resource:
Students interested in gaining research experience in STEM, social sciences, humanities, healthcare, or other academic disciplines. This resource is especially useful for students who are new to research, unsure how to find opportunities, or interested in exploring whether research might be a good fit for their academic and career goals.

Why it’s helpful:
Many students are interested in research but are unsure where to begin or how to connect with faculty and opportunities. This resource helps demystify the process by providing practical guidance for getting involved and understanding what research experiences can look like across disciplines. Participating in undergraduate research can help students develop technical and transferable skills such as communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, and project management. Research experiences can also help students clarify career interests, build relationships with faculty mentors, strengthen graduate or professional school applications, and gain hands-on experience applying classroom knowledge to real-world questions.

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